Cuban Pediatric Society in Exile

Position Statement on the case of Elian Gonzalez and Declaration of Principles

Whereas the Cuban Pediatric Society in Exile is a non political, scientific medical organization that has been in existence in the State of Florida for more than 30 years currently with more than 200 members.

Whereas Elian Gonzalez is a six year old Cuban boy who arrived to the US on Thanksgiving Day on November 25th, 1999.  Elian was rescued at sea alone, after his mother lost her life in an attempt to seek freedom.

Whereas there have been health care professionals from other areas traveling to South Florida and speaking to the media expressing their medical opinions without having obtained a medical history, performed a physical examination nor other proper psychological evaluations of Elian.

Based on the above facts the Cuban Pediatric Society in Exile states the following

DECLARATION OF PRINCIPLES:

That Elian's rights as a child should be honored and respected under the principles of the "Convention of The Rights of Children" promulgated by the United Nations and supported by Pediatricians around the world.

That every effort should be made to have a family reunion among Elian's father, his wife, Lazaro Gonzalez and other relatives in Miami.  This meeting should be held in a neutral place without government, media, or outside intervention and without any pre-conditions.

THAT THE Cuban Pediatric Society in Exile offers its knowledge of the Cuban culture and its resources to obtain this goal.

That we denounce and strongly oppose statements made by individuals who have been expressing medical or psychological judgments without following the most basic rules of medical ethics and care.

That in our opinion the legal aspects of this case, if needed, would be better served in a family court which is the indicated forum for cases of this nature; therefore, it is our conviction that Elian Gonzalez is entitled to have "a day in court" as any other human being in the United States of America.

Every free and democratic society assures that everyone's basic and individual rights are honored and respected.  Unfortunately children's rights are sometimes overlooked.  As children's advocates it is our moral and legal obligation to make sure that individual rights of children are considered.  National and worldwide organizations support this notion.  We feel that Elian Gonzalez's rights should be taken into account before any abrupt decision, which could have life long implications, is made.   Unfortunately due to the political and emotional aspects surrounding this case many have rushed to make a judgment and express their opinion without taking all the facts into consideration.

The Cuban Pediatric Society in Exile was founded over 30 years ago.  Its membership is composed of general pediatricians, pediatric sub specialists and other health care professionals with many tears of experience in the field of Pediatrics.  South Florida is a community made up of people with many different ethnic origins and backgrounds.  For many years we have cared for the children in this community, especially children of Cuban origin.  We have also traveled to many places in Latin America and to Guantanamo, Cuba to offer our services to Cuban and Haitian children there during the crisis created by the most recent massive exodus from Cuba.  We feel our knowledge and expertise places us in the best position to evaluate this case.  We do so in a nonpolitical, objective manner as children advocates that we are.

As it has been suggested by pediatric psychiatrists and psychologists treating Elian since his arrival to the United States, and because of what he went trough and witnessed "first hand" he may fit the diagnosis of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).  This is a condition in which the victims experience become even worse when they are subjected to change or when they feel threatened in any way about their safety.

We understand and respect traditional Cuban Family values.  We are also well aware of the political situation in Cuba.  This is why we insist that a family reunion with Elian's father, his wife and his Miami relatives take place in a neutral environment away from the pressures of governments, media, outsiders with their own hidden political agendas.  This should be carried out without any prearranged condition.

Traditionally custody battles are resolved in Family Courts.  Due to the political implications of this case, facts and decisions have been manipulated before taking into account al aspects of this unusual and unfortunate situation.  Everyone has their right to have his/her day in court.  Let's not deny Elian of this right.

Last but not least we urge everyone not to forget Elizabeth Brotons, Elian's mother, who made the ultimate sacrifice to bring her child to what she believed would be a better future.  Her cry, along with thousands of others who have lost their lives in the Florida Straights in their attempt to reach freedom, democracy and the pursuit of happiness, should be heard.